SCIENZE MICROBIOLOGICHE

Module Virology

Educational Objectives and Expected Learning Outcomes

(Formulated according to the Dublin Descriptors)

1. Knowledge and understanding

Upon completion of the course, the student must demonstrate the acquisition of solid knowledge and understanding regarding:

·         The biological, structural, and pathogenetic characteristics of the main viruses of human clinical interest.

·         The molecular and cellular mechanisms of viral infection and the different routes of transmission within the host.

·         Virus-host interactions, drawing a clear distinction between the state of infection and the development of disease.

·         The biological principles underlying prevention strategies (vaccines) and countermeasures (antiviral drugs) against viral infections.

·         The theoretical foundations of the methodological approach to laboratory diagnostics of viral infections (the practical and applied aspects of which will be examined in depth during the second year), with specific reference to basic and advanced serological diagnostics.

2. Applying knowledge and understanding

The student must be able to apply theoretical knowledge to:

·         Critically analyze the basic pathogenetic mechanisms of viruses, reconstructing the routes of entry and dissemination within the infected organism.

·         Correlate the presence of specific viral antigens or nucleic acids in different biological specimens (blood, secretions, and excretions) with transmission dynamics and the correct selection of the biological sample for diagnostic purposes.

·         Identify the biological rationale behind the use of a specific vaccination protocol or antiviral therapy based on the molecular target of the virus.

3. Making judgments

The student must develop the ability to:

·         Independently assess the risks of transmission and spread of various viral infections in community or nosocomial (hospital) settings.

·         Critically interpret basic laboratory data to understand the status of a viral infection.

4. Communication skills

The student must demonstrate the ability to:

·         Present virological and pathogenetic topics with clarity and command of language, using correct and appropriate scientific and microbiological terminology.

·         Describe virus-host interaction mechanisms and basic diagnostic methodologies in a clear and linear manner to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

5. Learning skills

The student must have developed study skills suitable to:

·         Independently deepen their knowledge of developments in the field of medical virology, with particular reference to the emergence of new viral variants or new therapeutic tools.

Seamlessly integrate these foundational concepts with the professionalizing courses and advanced microbiological diagnostic methods that will be addressed in the second year.

Traditional lectures, with the support of slides and educational videos of some theoretical-practical teaching topics (the films will be available on the Studium page). Students during one of the last lessons will have the opportunity to view some practical activities carried out in the laboratories of Virology.

Should teaching be carried out in mixed mode or remotely, it may be necessary to introduce changes with respect to previous statements, in line with the programme planned and outlined in the syllabus.

1. The organization of the viral particle and virus replication
2. Types of viral infection: acute and persistent infection (latent, slow, chronic, oncogenic)
3. The pathogenesis of the viral infection
4. The antiviral chemotherapy
5. Vaccines
6. The  diagnostic principles of viral diseases
7. Key features of main viruses of medical importance: Herpesviridae, Adenoviridae, Human Papillomavirus and Polyomavirus, Paramyxoviridae, Orthomyxoviridae, Picornaviridae, Reoviridae, human retroviruses, Togaviridae and Rubivirus, Human hepatitis viruses (HAV, HBV, HCV, HDV, HEV, HGV)

Bendinelli - Chezzi - Dettori - Manca - Morace - Polonelli – Tufano - Microbiologia Medica - Gli agenti infettivi dell' uomo: biologia, azione patogena, laboratorio - Virologia MONDUZZI EDITORE 

All students can use didactic material downloadable from the Studium UniCt page at the following link: https://151.97.240.44/dokeos/2021/courses/20061/